Discussion: View Thread

I have recently been applying to jobs in the Utah/West Coast area, and many of them require having experience in Autocad, Revit, Microstation, or some other visual engineering programs. Having transferred from Mechanical Engineering to Civil Engineering, my experience was mostly in visual programs such as NX 5.0, Solidworks, etc. I even self-taught myself to use Google Sketchup, and used a model I made to display the structural components of a tower as part of my CE capstone project. My question is, how can I overcome this barrier of not having the technical experience in Autocad, Microstation, or Revit, or other programs that is required for many entry-level positions? Should I just apply anyway hoping the firm will provided my needed experience? Or should I break the bank and go back to school to take a course specifically in Autocad? I have a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and chose to pursue an MPA afterwards to round my communication skills as an engineer.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

Kevin,
What type of job are you applying for? AutoCAD and other Autodesk products like LDD or Civil 3D are the most universal. Microstation is not anywhere near as popular, but is often required by government agencies such as state transportation departments. I have less knowledge of Revit, but it seems to be more suited to structural and architectural engineering. They are all similar in many ways and you can probably fumble along through basic tasks in any of them using the drop down menus if you have any CAD experience at all. But if you are going to spend time and money learning one of these you should look at where you hope to go with it and which one will be most useful. 

When I got out of college and started working, I found my limited knowledge of CAD (1 course) was holding me back, so I took some courses at the community college while I worked. The drain on time was worse than the drain on funds this way, but two nights a week wasn't unbearable.

There are also groups like AUGI that will help advance your knowledge. And now most CAD software has extensive free support and training online from the software provider. Autodesk and possibly others have training videos on YouTube. These options may not provide a certificate, but will provide knowledge. I believe most software providers will keep track of your training if you open a free account and this will provide some record for you. I still use these tools when I have to do something that I'm rusty on or haven't done before. 

Hope this helps,

Ron

------------------------------
Ron Zagrocki P.E., M.ASCE
Engineer
Aliquippa PA
(717)580-5736
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-04-2017 12:33
From: Kevin Sonico
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit


I have recently been applying to jobs in the Utah/West Coast area, and many of them require having experience in Autocad, Revit, Microstation, or some other visual engineering programs. Having transferred from Mechanical Engineering to Civil Engineering, my experience was mostly in visual programs such as NX 5.0, Solidworks, etc. I even self-taught myself to use Google Sketchup, and used a model I made to display the structural components of a tower as part of my CE capstone project. My question is, how can I overcome this barrier of not having the technical experience in Autocad, Microstation, or Revit, or other programs that is required for many entry-level positions? Should I just apply anyway hoping the firm will provided my needed experience? Or should I break the bank and go back to school to take a course specifically in Autocad? I have a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and chose to pursue an MPA afterwards to round my communication skills as an engineer.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

I agree with Ron.  Almost all government entities still use 2-D microstation, which is becoming very obsolete in the consulting private sector.  If you plan to work on any sort of buildings, or the aspects involved on a building project with multiple disciplines involved, then you will most have more success with Revit, since it is a 3-D platform that allows all disciplines to work together in one central model.  If you still have, or can get, a student version of any of the programs though, it can only help.  As Ron stated, there are many online tutorials available.  Autodesk has a whole library of lessons, and you can find just as many on YouTube.  I would not think it is necessary for you to go back to school.  Most companies would expect to invest some time in training a new higher right out of college, but the more you know, the less money it will cost them to do so.  If you spent some time on your own learning one of those drafting programs, you could add that to your resume.  You can always ask the company which one they are using and try to focus on the one that the job most requires.  Good luck.

------------------------------
John Brew P.E., M.ASCE
Professional Engineer
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-06-2017 09:21
From: Ron Zagrocki
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

Kevin,
What type of job are you applying for? AutoCAD and other Autodesk products like LDD or Civil 3D are the most universal. Microstation is not anywhere near as popular, but is often required by government agencies such as state transportation departments. I have less knowledge of Revit, but it seems to be more suited to structural and architectural engineering. They are all similar in many ways and you can probably fumble along through basic tasks in any of them using the drop down menus if you have any CAD experience at all. But if you are going to spend time and money learning one of these you should look at where you hope to go with it and which one will be most useful. 

When I got out of college and started working, I found my limited knowledge of CAD (1 course) was holding me back, so I took some courses at the community college while I worked. The drain on time was worse than the drain on funds this way, but two nights a week wasn't unbearable.

There are also groups like AUGI that will help advance your knowledge. And now most CAD software has extensive free support and training online from the software provider. Autodesk and possibly others have training videos on YouTube. These options may not provide a certificate, but will provide knowledge. I believe most software providers will keep track of your training if you open a free account and this will provide some record for you. I still use these tools when I have to do something that I'm rusty on or haven't done before. 

Hope this helps,

Ron

------------------------------
Ron Zagrocki P.E., M.ASCE
Engineer
Aliquippa PA
(717)580-5736
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-04-2017 12:33
From: Kevin Sonico
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit


I have recently been applying to jobs in the Utah/West Coast area, and many of them require having experience in Autocad, Revit, Microstation, or some other visual engineering programs. Having transferred from Mechanical Engineering to Civil Engineering, my experience was mostly in visual programs such as NX 5.0, Solidworks, etc. I even self-taught myself to use Google Sketchup, and used a model I made to display the structural components of a tower as part of my CE capstone project. My question is, how can I overcome this barrier of not having the technical experience in Autocad, Microstation, or Revit, or other programs that is required for many entry-level positions? Should I just apply anyway hoping the firm will provided my needed experience? Or should I break the bank and go back to school to take a course specifically in Autocad? I have a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and chose to pursue an MPA afterwards to round my communication skills as an engineer.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

Original Message------

Kevin,
What type of job are you applying for? AutoCAD and other Autodesk products like LDD or Civil 3D are the most universal. Microstation is not anywhere near as popular, but is often required by government agencies such as state transportation departments. I have less knowledge of Revit, but it seems to be more suited to structural and architectural engineering. They are all similar in many ways and you can probably fumble along through basic tasks in any of them using the drop down menus if you have any CAD experience at all. But if you are going to spend time and money learning one of these you should look at where you hope to go with it and which one will be most useful. 

When I got out of college and started working, I found my limited knowledge of CAD (1 course) was holding me back, so I took some courses at the community college while I worked. The drain on time was worse than the drain on funds this way, but two nights a week wasn't unbearable.

There are also groups like AUGI that will help advance your knowledge. And now most CAD software has extensive free support and training online from the software provider. Autodesk and possibly others have training videos on YouTube. These options may not provide a certificate, but will provide knowledge. I believe most software providers will keep track of your training if you open a free account and this will provide some record for you. I still use these tools when I have to do something that I'm rusty on or haven't done before. 

Hope this helps,

Ron

------------------------------
Ron Zagrocki P.E., M.ASCE
Engineer
Aliquippa PA
(717)580-5736
------------------------------

I, too, decided on the BSCE/MPa route.  No need to "break the bank"- with your strong computer modeling software background, simply find an AutoCAD and/or MircoStation rep in your area, take a week off and attend a class.  Even if you have to take a Micro-GeoPak type of course, it will help.  No need to go after a month or two  of training for entry or near entry level positions.  That should be enough to get your foot in the door, and remember that even those who intern for CE firms do not get all that much training, let alone applied cad time, unless they work for 2 or more summers...

Good luck!

------------------------------
Reed Schwartzkopf P.E., M.ASCE
Project Manager
Bolton and Menk, Inc.
Ames IA

------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-04-2017 12:33
From: Kevin Sonico
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit


I have recently been applying to jobs in the Utah/West Coast area, and many of them require having experience in Autocad, Revit, Microstation, or some other visual engineering programs. Having transferred from Mechanical Engineering to Civil Engineering, my experience was mostly in visual programs such as NX 5.0, Solidworks, etc. I even self-taught myself to use Google Sketchup, and used a model I made to display the structural components of a tower as part of my CE capstone project. My question is, how can I overcome this barrier of not having the technical experience in Autocad, Microstation, or Revit, or other programs that is required for many entry-level positions? Should I just apply anyway hoping the firm will provided my needed experience? Or should I break the bank and go back to school to take a course specifically in Autocad? I have a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and chose to pursue an MPA afterwards to round my communication skills as an engineer.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

I'm assuming you are coming out of school.  Usually the real world experience with these programs is going to be minimal at best coming from school.  And trying to find schooling that will cater to the civil field may be tough to find in a college scenario.  Autocad does provide for a 30 free trial (I'm assuming Microstation does as well).  Download and use the many on-line learning tools (youtube is a good place to start) to at least get familiar with the programs.  Each firm will use there preferred program in different ways with their preferred standards.  Expect to learn these programs on the job more then via schooling.  

------------------------------
Andrew Coursen P.E., P.L.S., M.ASCE
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-04-2017 12:33
From: Kevin Sonico
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit


I have recently been applying to jobs in the Utah/West Coast area, and many of them require having experience in Autocad, Revit, Microstation, or some other visual engineering programs. Having transferred from Mechanical Engineering to Civil Engineering, my experience was mostly in visual programs such as NX 5.0, Solidworks, etc. I even self-taught myself to use Google Sketchup, and used a model I made to display the structural components of a tower as part of my CE capstone project. My question is, how can I overcome this barrier of not having the technical experience in Autocad, Microstation, or Revit, or other programs that is required for many entry-level positions? Should I just apply anyway hoping the firm will provided my needed experience? Or should I break the bank and go back to school to take a course specifically in Autocad? I have a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and chose to pursue an MPA afterwards to round my communication skills as an engineer.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

I would suggest you learn if you are a young engineer and in the beginning of your career.  But if you are towards the end of a career, then perhaps your valuable experiences can offset this issue in other areas.  Good Luck.

------------------------------
David Gardner P.E., M.ASCE
Retired City Engineer
DMG Engineering
Natchez MS
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-04-2017 12:33
From: Kevin Sonico
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit


I have recently been applying to jobs in the Utah/West Coast area, and many of them require having experience in Autocad, Revit, Microstation, or some other visual engineering programs. Having transferred from Mechanical Engineering to Civil Engineering, my experience was mostly in visual programs such as NX 5.0, Solidworks, etc. I even self-taught myself to use Google Sketchup, and used a model I made to display the structural components of a tower as part of my CE capstone project. My question is, how can I overcome this barrier of not having the technical experience in Autocad, Microstation, or Revit, or other programs that is required for many entry-level positions? Should I just apply anyway hoping the firm will provided my needed experience? Or should I break the bank and go back to school to take a course specifically in Autocad? I have a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and chose to pursue an MPA afterwards to round my communication skills as an engineer.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

Original Message------


I have recently been applying to jobs in the Utah/West Coast area, and many of them require having experience in Autocad, Revit, Microstation, or some other visual engineering programs. Having transferred from Mechanical Engineering to Civil Engineering, my experience was mostly in visual programs such as NX 5.0, Solidworks, etc. I even self-taught myself to use Google Sketchup, and used a model I made to display the structural components of a tower as part of my CE capstone project. My question is, how can I overcome this barrier of not having the technical experience in Autocad, Microstation, or Revit, or other programs that is required for many entry-level positions? Should I just apply anyway hoping the firm will provided my needed experience? Or should I break the bank and go back to school to take a course specifically in Autocad? I have a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and chose to pursue an MPA afterwards to round my communication skills as an engineer.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

LYNDA.com

If you are technically competent and reasonably computer literature, you can learn almost any software package at an entry-level by playing with it and using free tutorials/videos.  Experience only comes with real problems so if these are entry-level jobs you are applying to, they are expecting you know how to use the software, not necessarily WHEN to use it.

Lynda.com has tons of software package tutorials. Some are short 'how to do this in this package' kind of videos while others are multi-hour courses. There is a 10 day free trial and then a small monthly cost. 

[P.S. I am not a lynda representative, and I don't own stock in this company.  I heard about the site from my students!]

------------------------------
Jeanne VanBriesen Ph.D., P.E., F.EWRI, M.ASCE
Professor
Carnegie Mellon University
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-06-2017 11:16
From: Daniel Chase
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

Software designers sell courses ion their products. But they come with a price.  You might consider signing up for them, but also keep applying for work.  Your experience with Solidworks or NX 5 has to count for something, even without the ACADD experience.  I started working before Autocadd and am still not very experienced, I'm still employed because I have experience as an engineer, not a CADD operator.

 

I am a firm believer that learning computer software is much easier than learning to think like and engineer.

 

Dan Chase

Stantec
1327 Del Norte Road Camarillo CA 93010-9123
Office Phone: (805) 981-0706 Ext 103

Direct Phone: 805 322-1665

Cell: 805 233 0900
Fax: (805) 981-0251
Dan.Chase@...

 

 

 

The content of this email is the confidential property of Stantec and should not be copied, modified, retransmitted, or used for any purpose except with Stantec's written authorization. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete all copies and notify us immediately.

 

ü Please consider the environment before printing this email.

 

There is a lot out there and much is free:
Autodesk Training:Free Online Classes and Tutorials | Autodesk University

Autodesk		remove preview
Free Online Classes and Tutorials | Autodesk University Watch free online classes and tutorials from Autodesk University. Learn about Autodesk products and services, get expert tips, explore industry trends, and more. View this on Autodesk >

AutoCAD Training results on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=autocad

Autodesk's own YouTube channel: Autodesk

YouTube		remove preview
Autodesk Autodesk is a world leader in 3D design, engineering, and entertainment software. Since introducing AutoCAD in 1982, Autodesk has developed a broad portfolio of products to help users design, visualize, and simulate their ideas. View this on YouTube >

YouTube search for Microstation tutorials: microstation tutorials - YouTube

Youtube		remove preview
microstation tutorials - YouTube Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. View this on Youtube >

Some universities including ivy league schools like Yale and MIT put entire courses on YouTube for free. You don't get any kind of certificate, but there is a lot of good knowledge out there for free.

------------------------------
Ron Zagrocki P.E., M.ASCE
Engineer
Aliquippa PA
(717)580-5736
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-06-2017 11:16
From: Daniel Chase
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

Software designers sell courses ion their products. But they come with a price.  You might consider signing up for them, but also keep applying for work.  Your experience with Solidworks or NX 5 has to count for something, even without the ACADD experience.  I started working before Autocadd and am still not very experienced, I'm still employed because I have experience as an engineer, not a CADD operator.

 

I am a firm believer that learning computer software is much easier than learning to think like and engineer.

 

Dan Chase

Stantec
1327 Del Norte Road Camarillo CA 93010-9123
Office Phone: (805) 981-0706 Ext 103

Direct Phone: 805 322-1665

Cell: 805 233 0900
Fax: (805) 981-0251
Dan.Chase@...

 

 

 

The content of this email is the confidential property of Stantec and should not be copied, modified, retransmitted, or used for any purpose except with Stantec's written authorization. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete all copies and notify us immediately.

 

ü Please consider the environment before printing this email.

 

Negative on going back to school.  I started using AutoCAD in the mid 1980's switch to Microstation in early 1990's and switch back to AutoCAD one year ago.  It had completely changed so it was like starting over again.  The best website I found is Lynda.com for AutoCAD training you want or need.  You can pay by the month and should only take you a month or less depending how much time you can put in (about 80 hours for a newbee).  You can also purchase AutoCAD LT on line for about $350.  This will give you the necessary tools you will need.  It is never to late I am 72.  Good Luck 

------------------------------
Lawrence Mislinski M.ASCE
Dir Of Cvl Engrg
Lawrence Consulting Engineers
Harrison Township MI
(586)246-9810
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-04-2017 12:33
From: Kevin Sonico
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit


I have recently been applying to jobs in the Utah/West Coast area, and many of them require having experience in Autocad, Revit, Microstation, or some other visual engineering programs. Having transferred from Mechanical Engineering to Civil Engineering, my experience was mostly in visual programs such as NX 5.0, Solidworks, etc. I even self-taught myself to use Google Sketchup, and used a model I made to display the structural components of a tower as part of my CE capstone project. My question is, how can I overcome this barrier of not having the technical experience in Autocad, Microstation, or Revit, or other programs that is required for many entry-level positions? Should I just apply anyway hoping the firm will provided my needed experience? Or should I break the bank and go back to school to take a course specifically in Autocad? I have a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and chose to pursue an MPA afterwards to round my communication skills as an engineer.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

Thank you so much for your feedback. I agree Dan that most of my education went towards "thinking like an engineer" since most companies probably expect new hires to adapt to the work specific to that company. I am looking to work in water resources since most of my education is in hydraulic design of channels and waterways. I will definitely check out these resources, thank you for quieting my fears about these technical skills.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-07-2017 09:13
From: Lawrence Mislinski
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

Negative on going back to school.  I started using AutoCAD in the mid 1980's switch to Microstation in early 1990's and switch back to AutoCAD one year ago.  It had completely changed so it was like starting over again.  The best website I found is Lynda.com for AutoCAD training you want or need.  You can pay by the month and should only take you a month or less depending how much time you can put in (about 80 hours for a newbee).  You can also purchase AutoCAD LT on line for about $350.  This will give you the necessary tools you will need.  It is never to late I am 72.  Good Luck 

------------------------------
Lawrence Mislinski M.ASCE
Dir Of Cvl Engrg
Lawrence Consulting Engineers
Harrison Township MI
(586)246-9810
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-04-2017 12:33
From: Kevin Sonico
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit


I have recently been applying to jobs in the Utah/West Coast area, and many of them require having experience in Autocad, Revit, Microstation, or some other visual engineering programs. Having transferred from Mechanical Engineering to Civil Engineering, my experience was mostly in visual programs such as NX 5.0, Solidworks, etc. I even self-taught myself to use Google Sketchup, and used a model I made to display the structural components of a tower as part of my CE capstone project. My question is, how can I overcome this barrier of not having the technical experience in Autocad, Microstation, or Revit, or other programs that is required for many entry-level positions? Should I just apply anyway hoping the firm will provided my needed experience? Or should I break the bank and go back to school to take a course specifically in Autocad? I have a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and chose to pursue an MPA afterwards to round my communication skills as an engineer.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

I work as a training consultant for many engineering firms.  The number one need they all express is "I cannot find good CAD techs".  The EI's I work with at these firms have similar stories about having only 1 semester of CAD instruction in college which did not meet the needs of the firms they work for.  I provide project specific training on AutoCAD and Civil 3D using the firms data from a recent project.  We focus on the deliverables; plan and profiles, grading, drainage... the list goes on. 

I encourage people to find all the free training they can get online.  If you are not sure what to look for or just don't have the time or energy to go the self-taught route that's where I usually get asked to get to the point quickly and concisely to develop the firm's employees competence for the immediate needs of an active project. Delivery of training is a combination of face to face and online sessions depending on the learner's preferences.

Your current skills and the initiative you have taken to improve your skills means you will have plenty of employment opportunities to choose from.

------------------------------
Brian Morse A.M.ASCE
Owner
Bradenton FL
www.BrianMorse.com
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-08-2017 20:11
From: Kevin Sonico
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

Thank you so much for your feedback. I agree Dan that most of my education went towards "thinking like an engineer" since most companies probably expect new hires to adapt to the work specific to that company. I am looking to work in water resources since most of my education is in hydraulic design of channels and waterways. I will definitely check out these resources, thank you for quieting my fears about these technical skills.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-07-2017 09:13
From: Lawrence Mislinski
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

Negative on going back to school.  I started using AutoCAD in the mid 1980's switch to Microstation in early 1990's and switch back to AutoCAD one year ago.  It had completely changed so it was like starting over again.  The best website I found is Lynda.com for AutoCAD training you want or need.  You can pay by the month and should only take you a month or less depending how much time you can put in (about 80 hours for a newbee).  You can also purchase AutoCAD LT on line for about $350.  This will give you the necessary tools you will need.  It is never to late I am 72.  Good Luck 

------------------------------
Lawrence Mislinski M.ASCE
Dir Of Cvl Engrg
Lawrence Consulting Engineers
Harrison Township MI
(586)246-9810
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-04-2017 12:33
From: Kevin Sonico
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit


I have recently been applying to jobs in the Utah/West Coast area, and many of them require having experience in Autocad, Revit, Microstation, or some other visual engineering programs. Having transferred from Mechanical Engineering to Civil Engineering, my experience was mostly in visual programs such as NX 5.0, Solidworks, etc. I even self-taught myself to use Google Sketchup, and used a model I made to display the structural components of a tower as part of my CE capstone project. My question is, how can I overcome this barrier of not having the technical experience in Autocad, Microstation, or Revit, or other programs that is required for many entry-level positions? Should I just apply anyway hoping the firm will provided my needed experience? Or should I break the bank and go back to school to take a course specifically in Autocad? I have a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and chose to pursue an MPA afterwards to round my communication skills as an engineer.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

It is not uncommon for most engineering programs to offer only 1 semester of CAD. 4-years engineering programs are already cramped with many courses and scheduling more time to learn a software may prevent the teaching of more engineering concepts. In my opinion, learning engineering fundamental concepts should precede learning a software. Otherwise, students would become excellent operators of a computer without proper understanding the reason why they are using that software.  


------------------------------
Carlos Zuluaga C.Eng, S.M.ASCE
Ph.D. Student, Civil Engineering
Cary NC
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-27-2017 06:44
From: Brian Morse
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

I work as a training consultant for many engineering firms.  The number one need they all express is "I cannot find good CAD techs".  The EI's I work with at these firms have similar stories about having only 1 semester of CAD instruction in college which did not meet the needs of the firms they work for.  I provide project specific training on AutoCAD and Civil 3D using the firms data from a recent project.  We focus on the deliverables; plan and profiles, grading, drainage... the list goes on. 

I encourage people to find all the free training they can get online.  If you are not sure what to look for or just don't have the time or energy to go the self-taught route that's where I usually get asked to get to the point quickly and concisely to develop the firm's employees competence for the immediate needs of an active project. Delivery of training is a combination of face to face and online sessions depending on the learner's preferences.

Your current skills and the initiative you have taken to improve your skills means you will have plenty of employment opportunities to choose from.

------------------------------
Brian Morse A.M.ASCE
Owner
Bradenton FL
www.BrianMorse.com
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-08-2017 20:11
From: Kevin Sonico
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

Thank you so much for your feedback. I agree Dan that most of my education went towards "thinking like an engineer" since most companies probably expect new hires to adapt to the work specific to that company. I am looking to work in water resources since most of my education is in hydraulic design of channels and waterways. I will definitely check out these resources, thank you for quieting my fears about these technical skills.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-07-2017 09:13
From: Lawrence Mislinski
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

Negative on going back to school.  I started using AutoCAD in the mid 1980's switch to Microstation in early 1990's and switch back to AutoCAD one year ago.  It had completely changed so it was like starting over again.  The best website I found is Lynda.com for AutoCAD training you want or need.  You can pay by the month and should only take you a month or less depending how much time you can put in (about 80 hours for a newbee).  You can also purchase AutoCAD LT on line for about $350.  This will give you the necessary tools you will need.  It is never to late I am 72.  Good Luck 

------------------------------
Lawrence Mislinski M.ASCE
Dir Of Cvl Engrg
Lawrence Consulting Engineers
Harrison Township MI
(586)246-9810
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-04-2017 12:33
From: Kevin Sonico
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit


I have recently been applying to jobs in the Utah/West Coast area, and many of them require having experience in Autocad, Revit, Microstation, or some other visual engineering programs. Having transferred from Mechanical Engineering to Civil Engineering, my experience was mostly in visual programs such as NX 5.0, Solidworks, etc. I even self-taught myself to use Google Sketchup, and used a model I made to display the structural components of a tower as part of my CE capstone project. My question is, how can I overcome this barrier of not having the technical experience in Autocad, Microstation, or Revit, or other programs that is required for many entry-level positions? Should I just apply anyway hoping the firm will provided my needed experience? Or should I break the bank and go back to school to take a course specifically in Autocad? I have a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and chose to pursue an MPA afterwards to round my communication skills as an engineer.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

One never knows which drafting software package will be used where one becomes employed after graduation; and you may switch drafting software several times along your career path.  I wish more engineering schools would focus on teaching Graphic Standards rather than getting too in depth with whatever software package the school is using.  Also, teach the students how to letter so that anyone can read their hand writing, and how to do a rough freehand sketch.  Over the course of my career I have used at least four different drafting software packages including autocad & microstation (five, if you count old-school pen & ink on mylar utilizing a parallel bar on a drafting table).

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Jesse Burke P.E., M.ASCE
President
Burke Engineering, LLC
Columbia SC
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Original Message:
Sent: 04-28-2017 09:18
From: Carlos Zuluaga
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

It is not uncommon for most engineering programs to offer only 1 semester of CAD. 4-years engineering programs are already cramped with many courses and scheduling more time to learn a software may prevent the teaching of more engineering concepts. In my opinion, learning engineering fundamental concepts should precede learning a software. Otherwise, students would become excellent operators of a computer without proper understanding the reason why they are using that software.  


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Carlos Zuluaga C.Eng, S.M.ASCE
Ph.D. Student, Civil Engineering
Cary NC
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Original Message:
Sent: 04-27-2017 06:44
From: Brian Morse
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

I work as a training consultant for many engineering firms.  The number one need they all express is "I cannot find good CAD techs".  The EI's I work with at these firms have similar stories about having only 1 semester of CAD instruction in college which did not meet the needs of the firms they work for.  I provide project specific training on AutoCAD and Civil 3D using the firms data from a recent project.  We focus on the deliverables; plan and profiles, grading, drainage... the list goes on. 

I encourage people to find all the free training they can get online.  If you are not sure what to look for or just don't have the time or energy to go the self-taught route that's where I usually get asked to get to the point quickly and concisely to develop the firm's employees competence for the immediate needs of an active project. Delivery of training is a combination of face to face and online sessions depending on the learner's preferences.

Your current skills and the initiative you have taken to improve your skills means you will have plenty of employment opportunities to choose from.

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Brian Morse A.M.ASCE
Owner
Bradenton FL
www.BrianMorse.com
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-08-2017 20:11
From: Kevin Sonico
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

Thank you so much for your feedback. I agree Dan that most of my education went towards "thinking like an engineer" since most companies probably expect new hires to adapt to the work specific to that company. I am looking to work in water resources since most of my education is in hydraulic design of channels and waterways. I will definitely check out these resources, thank you for quieting my fears about these technical skills.

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Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-07-2017 09:13
From: Lawrence Mislinski
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

Negative on going back to school.  I started using AutoCAD in the mid 1980's switch to Microstation in early 1990's and switch back to AutoCAD one year ago.  It had completely changed so it was like starting over again.  The best website I found is Lynda.com for AutoCAD training you want or need.  You can pay by the month and should only take you a month or less depending how much time you can put in (about 80 hours for a newbee).  You can also purchase AutoCAD LT on line for about $350.  This will give you the necessary tools you will need.  It is never to late I am 72.  Good Luck 

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Lawrence Mislinski M.ASCE
Dir Of Cvl Engrg
Lawrence Consulting Engineers
Harrison Township MI
(586)246-9810
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 03-04-2017 12:33
From: Kevin Sonico
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit


I have recently been applying to jobs in the Utah/West Coast area, and many of them require having experience in Autocad, Revit, Microstation, or some other visual engineering programs. Having transferred from Mechanical Engineering to Civil Engineering, my experience was mostly in visual programs such as NX 5.0, Solidworks, etc. I even self-taught myself to use Google Sketchup, and used a model I made to display the structural components of a tower as part of my CE capstone project. My question is, how can I overcome this barrier of not having the technical experience in Autocad, Microstation, or Revit, or other programs that is required for many entry-level positions? Should I just apply anyway hoping the firm will provided my needed experience? Or should I break the bank and go back to school to take a course specifically in Autocad? I have a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and chose to pursue an MPA afterwards to round my communication skills as an engineer.

------------------------------
Kevin Sonico EIT, A.M.ASCE
Saratoga Springs UT
(831)595-3236
------------------------------

Original Message------

It is not uncommon for most engineering programs to offer only 1 semester of CAD. 4-years engineering programs are already cramped with many courses and scheduling more time to learn a software may prevent the teaching of more engineering concepts. In my opinion, learning engineering fundamental concepts should precede learning a software. Otherwise, students would become excellent operators of a computer without proper understanding the reason why they are using that software.  


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Carlos Zuluaga C.Eng, S.M.ASCE
Ph.D. Student, Civil Engineering
Cary NC
------------------------------

Carlos, Jesse, Daniel,
Thank you for your responses. You each make good points which reflect the views of many engineers I work with and I do not disagree with you or them. My original post as this one is as well are simply my observations from working with many businesses and government engineering departments. The schools are producing great engineers. Not all businesses are using AutoCAD, its mostly a client driven requirement that decides which software they will use. The last recession and software improvements have changed the job descriptions of the current workforce.  Businesses bill for the work they deliver which is almost entirely produced with the assistance of computer software.  Software today is a design tool made by and for engineers.  The current capabilities of the software enable output that appears to be drafted but is actually a display tied to a computer model of the design. Some business who have streamlined their workforce have few to no non-engineering educated CAD Techs. These businesses are producing as much or more work than other businesses twice their size.  The one leading factor common to all of them is they are better at exploiting the capabilities of their design software.

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Brian Morse A.M.ASCE
Owner
Bradenton FL
www.BrianMorse.com
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-29-2017 07:40
From: Daniel Cook
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

Why are we having Engineering Interns doing technician work? We should be training them to be engineers rather than technicians.

I agree

Carl Smith: PE, Life ASCE member

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Original Message------

Why are we having Engineering Interns doing technician work? We should be training them to be engineers rather than technicians.

We have young engineers do drafting, Cadd and other "non-project management" things because young engineers need to understand the whole project in order to be able to explain to what you want designed, drawn and calculated.  I have found that if they do not have 2 projects worth of CADD, they cannot speak to the operators intelligently enough to be able to explain that the line type is too thick, or how to create a surface, or which surfaces they need to look at when calculating the net balance.  They also do not understand what the implications are of the decision to move the centerline 3 feet east without changing the section.

Personally, I believe that young engineers should spend 2-3 months as an administrative person so that they understand how a contract is put together, where the files are, and how to get something out of them.

Project management will come better when the technical aspects of the system are understood.  After all, how do you budget time for the CADD production of a project if your CADD guy says I don't know, and you have no clue either.

Its the same reason we start engineering with calculus, rather than Laplace transforms.  It makes it seem less like magic.

As to which software, it doesn't much matter, cause 2 years from now, they should not be directly using any of it.  If you are looking for a specific job, with specific requirements, demonstrate proficiency by doing a project of some type.

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Dwayne Culp Ph.D., P.E., P.Eng, M.ASCE
Culp Engineering, LLC
Richmond TX
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-29-2017 07:40
From: Daniel Cook
Subject: Autocad, Microstation, and Revit

Why are we having Engineering Interns doing technician work? We should be training them to be engineers rather than technicians.